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Ohio is home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the birthplace of aviation, and some of the most iconic college football rivalries in the country. But beyond the headlines, it’s also a great place to build a life—with solid job markets, affordable living, and strong local communities.
Whether you’re managing everyday expenses or planning for long-term goals, choosing the right bank can help you make the most of your money. Ohio has a wide range of options, from national banks with high-tech tools to community banks that focus on personal service.
10 Best Banks in Ohio
To help you narrow it down, we’ve reviewed the best banks in Ohio based on account features, fees, accessibility, and overall value. Whether you prefer online banking or in-person service, there’s a fit for every type of account holder.
With a strong presence in the Buckeye State, U.S. Bank offers a broad range of financial services. Its national reputation and extensive network of branches make it a go-to choice for many Ohioans.
U.S. Bank is currently welcoming new applicants with a special offering:
Subject to certain terms and limitations. Offer valid through May 6, 2025. Member FDIC.
Offer may not be available if you live outside of the U.S. Bank footprint or are not an existing client of U.S. Bank or State Farm.
The account includes a free debit card that can be locked or unlocked if ever misplaced or stolen. There are no ATM transaction fees at U.S. Bank ATMs and no surcharge fees at over 40,000 MoneyPass® Network ATMs.
The checking account requires a $25 opening deposit and a $6.95 monthly fee. This fee can be waived for those 24 and under, 65 and over, or military members (must self-disclose).
Additionally, the fee can be waived with monthly deposits of $1,000+, an average balance of $1,500+, or holding an eligible U.S. Bank credit card. Qualifying for any Smart Rewards® tier (Primary, Plus, Premium, or Pinnacle) also waives the fee.
SoFi is a top pick for Ohioans who prefer online banking with strong perks.
Its Checking & Savings account earns up to 3.80% APY on savings and 0.50% APY on checking—without any monthly fees.
New customers can also earn a bonus between $50 and $300, depending on the amount of their initial direct deposit.
Additional features include early direct deposit, which gives you access to your paycheck up to two days early, and up to $50 in overdraft protection if you have qualifying deposits.
Your money is FDIC insured up to $2 million, and you’ll have access to over 55,000 Allpoint® ATMs nationwide for easy, fee-free withdrawals.
Fifth Third Bank, headquartered in Cincinnati, is a major regional player with a strong presence throughout Ohio.
With branches in cities like Akron, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo, it offers widespread access for those who prefer in-person banking.
Its Momentum Checking account is a standout option, with no monthly maintenance fees, no minimum deposit to open, and no ongoing balance requirements.
Customers also benefit from Fifth Third’s Extra Time feature, which gives you until midnight the next business day to resolve overdrafts before a fee is charged.
Beyond checking, Fifth Third offers early direct deposit and competitive rates on CDs. While savings account yields are lower, the bank’s extensive ATM network—over 40,000 fee-free partner ATMs nationwide—adds convenience and flexibility.
Upgrade is a strong choice for Ohio residents who want a modern, fee-free online banking experience.
Its Rewards Checking Plus account has no monthly maintenance fees, no overdraft fees, and no transfer fees—and you don’t need a minimum deposit to get started.
The account includes early direct deposit, letting you access your paycheck up to two days early. You’ll also earn up to 2% cash back on debit card purchases.
If you’re looking to grow your savings, the Upgrade Premier Savings account offers a competitive 4.02% APY on balances of $1,000 or more.
All accounts are FDIC insured up to $1 million through Upgrade’s partnership with Cross River Bank.
Huntington National Bank, headquartered in Columbus, stands out as one of the top banks in Ohio, with more than 400 branches statewide.
You’ll find locations in major cities like Akron, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo—making it easily accessible across the state.
The bank’s checking account is fee-free and includes a 24-hour grace period for overdrafts, plus coverage for up to $50 in overdrawn transactions without a fee.
Customers can also benefit from early direct deposit and the Standby Cash program, which offers a small line of credit based on your account history.
While standard savings rates are modest, Huntington offers strong returns on CDs and money market accounts.
Its large footprint, helpful features, and competitive rates make it one of the most well-rounded banking options in Ohio.
Wright Patt Credit Union is one of Ohio’s largest credit unions, serving members across 20 counties.
It operates branches in cities like Beavercreek, Centerville, Columbus, Dayton, and Springfield, making it accessible throughout Central and Southwest Ohio.
Its checking account comes with no monthly fees, no minimum balance, and no opening deposit requirement.
Members also earn strong interest on the first $1,000 in savings, with competitive rates available on CDs and money market accounts.
WPCU provides fee-free ATM access through its own machines and the nationwide CO-OP network.
It also supports local nonprofits through the Sunshine Community Fund and offers affordable personal loans, making it a well-rounded option for Ohio residents.
Chase Bank is a well-known national bank with a major presence across Ohio, including branches in cities like Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo.
It’s a convenient option for anyone looking for broad access and a wide range of financial services.
The Chase Total Checking® account is one of its most popular options. While it carries a $12 monthly fee, that can be waived with at least $500 in direct deposits, a $1,500 daily balance, or $5,000 combined across Chase accounts.
Chase also offers a Student Checking account for customers ages 18 to 24, with no monthly fee for up to five years. You’ll have fee-free access to over 16,000 Chase ATMs nationwide.
Interest rates on savings accounts are modest, but CD rates are more competitive. Chase also stands out for its credit card lineup, offering strong rewards and bonus offers for everyday spending.
Woodforest National Bank operates in several states, including Ohio, with branches in cities such as Akron, Canton, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo.
It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a community-centered bank with flexible options.
The basic checking account has a $6.95 monthly fee, but that’s waived with direct deposit or a $100 minimum balance. You only need $25 to open the account, making it accessible for most.
Woodforest also offers a second chance checking account, ideal for those rebuilding their financial standing. For savers, CD rates are competitive, and small business owners can take advantage of loan options designed to meet various needs.
You can also monitor your credit score easily through the bank’s mobile app, adding an extra level of convenience for keeping tabs on your financial health.
Park National Bank serves Ohio, the Carolinas, and Northern Kentucky, operating a total of 96 locations. This community bank offers various checking accounts to choose from.
Their Simplicity Account is a basic checking account with no monthly fees, as long as you opt for electronic statements. The account also includes free introductory checks and overdraft protection options.
For savers, Park National Bank provides a traditional savings account, along with specialized options like health savings accounts and a Christmas Club Savings Account.
Beyond that, they offer an array of financial products including loans, credit cards, and investment accounts.
Civista Bank is a regional bank with strong roots in Ohio, serving cities such as Akron, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, and Sandusky.
It also extends into Southeastern Indiana and Northern Kentucky, offering both local service and broader access.
The bank keeps things simple—no monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements, and just $50 to open a checking account. This makes Civista accessible for individuals looking to manage their money without added costs.
Civista stands out for its homebuyer assistance grants, helping first-time buyers get a leg up in today’s housing market.
Business owners also benefit from a range of business checking options, making it a solid choice for both personal and commercial banking needs.
How to Choose the Best Bank in Ohio
Choosing the right bank in Ohio depends on your goals, preferences, and how you manage your money. Here are the most important things to keep in mind:
Location and access: Look for a bank with branches or ATMs near your home, work, or frequent destinations. If you travel often, consider whether the bank offers fee-free nationwide ATM access.
Account types: Whether you need checking, savings, CDs, or money market accounts, make sure the bank offers what you’re looking for.
Fees and charges: Watch for monthly maintenance fees, overdraft charges, or ATM fees. Many banks offer ways to waive them with direct deposit or minimum balances.
Interest rates: Compare rates on savings accounts, CDs, and loans. Higher APYs can help grow your money faster.
Online and mobile tools: A strong mobile app and online banking features can make managing your money easier. Look for things like bill pay, mobile check deposit, and spending insights.
Deposit insurance: Confirm the bank is backed by the FDIC (for banks) or NCUA (for credit unions) to ensure your deposits are protected up to $250,000.
Customer service: Look for responsive, accessible support—especially if you prefer the phone, live chat, or in-person help.
Perks and extras: Early direct deposit, welcome bonuses, and rewards on debit card use can add extra value to your account.
Community focus: If local involvement matters to you, community banks and credit unions often support nearby businesses and nonprofits.
Ultimately, the best bank for you is one that matches how you bank—whether that means no fees, great digital tools, or personalized customer service.
Types of Banks in Ohio
When searching for the best bank in Ohio, you have various banking options available. Here’s a detailed look at the different types of banks you can consider, along with some examples based on the Ohio banks we’ve discussed:
National banks: These banks have a broad reach, with branches and ATMs that span multiple states. They offer an array of financial services, from basic checking accounts to specialized investment products. In Ohio, Bank of America and Chase Bank are well-known national banks.
Regional banks: These banks focus primarily on a specific geographical region, providing a mix of widespread reach and community-focused services. Fifth Third Bank, First Financial Bank, PNC Bank, and U.S. Bank are leading examples of regional banks in Ohio.
Community banks: Tailoring their services to local preferences, community banks typically offer more personalized customer service. Civista Bank, Park National Bank, and Union Savings Bank are examples of community banks serving various areas in Ohio.
Online banks: These are online-only banks that typically have higher interest rates on savings accounts and lower fees than brick and mortar banks. SoFi and GO2bank are online bank options that Ohioans may be interested in.
Credit unions: Owned and operated by their members, credit unions are often a viable option for those looking for better interest rates and a more customized service experience. Wright Patt Credit Union and General Electric Credit Union are examples of credit unions in Ohio that provide a range of beneficial financial services.
Bottom Line
The banking options available to Ohio residents are diverse. From large national banks with extensive services to community banks that focus on personalized customer care, the best banks in Ohio are designed to provide reliable and convenient financial solutions.
Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or looking to retire, there’s a bank in Ohio that fits your requirements. Keep in mind the factors that are most important to you, be it interest rates, fees, or specialized accounts, as you make your choice. Happy banking!
Stephanie Faris is a professional finance writer with more than a decade of experience. Her work has been featured on a variety of top finance sites, including Money Under 30, GoBankingRates, Retirable, Sapling, and Benzinga.
